Bernie Kosar says he is being treated for brain trauma

Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar says treatments he got from a Florida doctor have helped reverse the effects of brain trauma he suffered during his 13-year NFL career.

“When I heard some of the things he was capable of doing I was bluntly a little skeptical,” Kosar said of the doctor, Rick Sponaugle. “But after just a few weeks of treatment to not have the ringing in the ears, not have the headaches and to be able to sleep through the night without medications and all the stuff.

“Not to get over-religious or to preach to you, but this was all happening during the holidays and I really thought it was like a gift from God.”

Kosar estimates he suffered at least 12 concussions during his NFL playing career, which lasted from 1985 to 1996.

Kosar said he has spoken to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell about the treatment and hopes it can become an option for current and former players.

“There are hundreds, if not thousands of guys who are dealing with issues and pain and stuff,” Kosar said. “Literally, I think a lot of them are losing hope. I tried really hard to find it. This treatment isn’t something I think a lot of guys know about, whether it's the younger kids playing or the ex-NFL players. I don't think a lot of people know there is hope for them.

“I hope if there are people and players out there suffering, they now know they have an option and something that can genuinely help them get better in a short amount a time that doesn’t involve living the rest of your life in pain and agony and on medication.”

Kosar said the treatment involves intravenous fluids and nutritional supplements all designed to increase blood flow to the brain.